Tamar

Tamar was a unique character in the Torah who, at a time in history when women were disempowered to create a better future for themselves, advocated for herself and her future lineage. Rather than be a passive victim of fate, she takes bold action in her life, even as it puts her at risk and her own life at jeopardy, to do what is right in this case. Through conviction, bravery, and chess-like strategic cunning, she ensures her own future, saves her life, and merits the Davidic Dynasty, as the greatest king of Israel will be a descendant of her offspring with Judah. It is due to her loyalty to family, her bold assertiveness, and her ability to swim against the tide, that generations later in the Book of Ruth, the blessing at Ruth and Boaz’s wedding is that their house “be like the house of Perez, whom Tamar bore to Judah” (Ruth 4:12). Ultimately it would be these traits that would embody the leadership of King David. 

May the TAMAR inspire you to take bold and courageous action in the face of life’s inevitable challenges, to follow your inner compass, and advocate your needs from your highest self. And may the seeds of that advocacy yield a ripple effect of blessings for your family for many generations to come.